9 Mar 2018 Outdoor Himalayan
Blog- Nepal in Ten Pictures. A South Asian landlocked country Nepal is a popular tourist destination. It offers a wide range of cultural, spiritual, and natural experiences. Just step aside from your home and visit Nepal. You will witness Mother Nature in some of her greatest glories. Nepal is a land of endless diversity so describing the beauty of Nepal in ten pictures is not possible.
Here are brief notes on ten of the most iconic destinations in Nepal:
1. Kathmandu
Kathmandu is the capital of Nepal. The city consists of several ancient temples, monasteries, and shrines. The city is home to several UNESCO-listed World Heritage sites. This beautiful city is surrounded by Phulchowki, Nagarjuna, Shivapuri, and Chandragiri. The city holds great significance both historically and culturally. The traditional architecture, sophisticated designs, and arts are well-preserved. Visit the lively Kathmandu city and explore the following historic sites:
Kathmandu Durbar Square
Under Nepal in ten pictures, Kathmandu Durbar Square is surely not to be missed. Major attractions are exquisite wooden window frames, 18th-century bronze sculptures, and inspiring stupas. The historical monuments like Hanuman Dhoka Palace, Kumari Ghar (residence of the Living Goddess Kumari), Temples of Taleju, Shiva-Parvati, Kal Bhairav, and Kasthamandap are worth exploring.
Swayambhunath Stupa
Swayambhunath is a stupa that offers visitors a panoramic view of the city from its high location. It’s a symbol of faith and harmony. Many people believe that the glory of Kathmandu Valley started from this point. Swayambhunath is the oldest stupa in Nepal and has many monasteries and shrines on its premises. It’s one of the holiest places for Buddhists in Nepal and provides a stunning view of the surrounding mountains and Kathmandu Valley.
Boudhanath Stupa
Another prominent Buddhist stupa Boudhanath, lies in Kathmandu, with a white dome and eyes painted on all four sides. A UNESCO World Heritage-listed site is one of the largest stupas in the world. A significant pilgrimage for Tibetan Buddhists surrounds numerous monasteries on the premise. The stupa is decorated with colorful prayer flags, prayer wheels, and traditional Tibetan architecture. Travelers can circumambulate around the stupa in a serene environment.
Pashupatinath
Pashupatinath is a respected Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is a sacred temple for Hindu devotees that is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple complex consists of several shrines, ashrams, and cremation sites. It lies on the bank of the Bagmati River. Pashupatinath is a temple with a golden roof, silver doors, and embellished with intricate carvings and sculptures.
2. Bhaktapur
The best example of a well-preserved, ancient, architectural, and cultural heritage city is Bhaktapur. The city displays some beautiful temples and palaces with great architecture. The artistic designs attract everyone. Some beautiful destinations to explore around Bhaktapur are:
Bhaktapur Durbar Square
The best example of the flourishment of art and architecture is with some architectural marvels like numerous temples, palaces, Lion Gate, etc. The beautifully carved 55-window palace, Nyatapola Temple, Dattatraya Square, Batasala Devi temple, Pottery Square, and Bhaktapur museum are major highlights.
Nagarkot
Nagarkot is a popular scenic hill station near Bhaktapur. It offers stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan ranges including Mt. Everest. One of the best destinations to witness fabulous sunrise and sunset over snow-capped mountains. A perfect peaceful location far from the busy city to relax and spend some quality time with loved ones. Travelers can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and exploring the local villages.
Changunarayan
A beautiful small village Changunarayan lies on a hilltop about 5 km northeast of Bhaktapur. One of the oldest Hindu temples of Nepal is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple has a deity of Lord Vishnu. The temple complex consists of intricate carvings and some fantastic artworks. Some attractions in the complex are:
-Chhinamasta Temple
-The stone sculpture of Vishworoop, Vishnu Vikrant, Narasimha, Kileshwor, Vaikuntha Vishnu, Sridhar Vishnu
-A private Changu Museum
-Ethnographic Museum
3. Lalitpur
Lalitpur is popularly called Patan. The city is famous for its rich history, art, and architecture. The traditional Newari architecture of Patan city is its real beauty. Patan Durbar Square is the highlight of Lalitpur city.
Patan Durbar Square
A famous place for its collection of unique temples, and palaces. A great example of Newari architecture in the palace structures, beautiful courtyards, and artistically beautiful pagoda temples mesmerizes all. Some attractions to explore are:
-Patan museum
-Keshav Narayan Chowk
-Sundari Chowk
-Krishna temple
Khokana
Khokana is a small Newari village located on the outskirts of Patan. Travelers can explore the traditional oil mills. Witness the locals pressing mustard seeds to extract oil. The traditional houses, the temple of Rudrayani, and the mustard and wheat fields are the highlights of this village. The picturesque background of the village is very impressive.
4. Pokhara
Pokhara is an ideal destination for all travelers. The city is abundant with picturesque views of snowy mountains, beautiful lakes, and lush greenery. A fresh-air city with a cluster of 9 lakes (Rupa, Phewa, Begnas) and a gateway to the Annapurna region. Travelers can also enjoy the cable car ride and witness stunning views of Mt. Annapurna and Pokhara valley. Some major attractions are:
• Davis Fall
• Pumdikot Shiva Statue
• Sarangkot
• Phewa Lake and Tal Barahi Temple
• Peace Stupa
• Mahendra and Bats Cave
The popular destination for trekking and carry some adventure sports like:
-Boating
-Hiking
-Mountain biking
-Paragliding
-Zip-lining
5. Chitwan
Chitwan lies in the sub-tropical Inner Terai lowlands of Nepal. The city is famous for its first national park, which shelters about 68 species of mammals, 544 species of birds, and 126 species of fish. And it also consists of 56 species of reptiles and amphibians. Chitwan National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Some attractions are Royal Bengal Tigers, One-horned rhinos, Ghariyals, Elephants, etc. Also, explore around:
-Tharu village and its culture
-Elephant breeding center
-Egg Hatching Centre
Travelers can enjoy various activities like:
-Jungle Safari
-Elephant rides
-Bird watching
-Canoe rides
6. Lumbini
Under Nepal in Ten Pictures, Lumbini is undoubtedly not to be missed. A famous Buddhist holy site Lumbini is the birthplace of Lord Buddha. Many devotees from around the world visit Lumbini every year. This UNESCO World Heritage Site holds great significance. In the monastic zone premise, there are several monasteries built by different nations in their style. The architecture of those monasteries is very impressive. Some major attractions are:
-Maya Devi Temple
-Puskarini Pond
-Ashoka Pillar
7. Mustang
Mustang lies in the northern part of Nepal. This remote region is popular for its beautiful landscapes, its ancient history, and culture. The region is barren but holds its beauty. Lo-Manthang is the former capital of Mustang. This restricted area is slowly gaining popularity for its uniqueness. Travelers can trek in this region and explore the ancient kingdom of Lo-Manthang, and the culture of the people living there. Some places to explore in Mustang are:
Upper Mustang
Upper Mustang is an isolated region that lies in the northernmost part of Nepal which is remote. There is an ancient Buddhist kingdom of Lo, with unique culture, and architecture. The stunning landscapes, deep gorges, barren deserts, and rocky canyons add beauty to this region.
Travelers can trek along the rough terrain and explore ancient monasteries, and witness traditional Tibetan culture. Upper Mustang is a perfect destination for adventurers who are seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. Some of the popular attractions in the Upper Mustang are:
-The city of Lo Manthang
-The Chhoser Cave
-The Ghar Gompa
Muktinath
Muktinath is a prominent pilgrimage site for both Hindus and Buddhists. The temple features 108 water spouts where devotees take a holy bath. They believe they attain salvation after death. A fossil called Shaligram can be found on the Kaligandaki river. The only river Shaligrams are found which is directly linked with Lord Vishnu.
8. Annapurna Region
Annapurna region lies in the western part of Kathmandu. The region is very diverse and offers mesmerizing landscapes. It offers stunning views of the Annapurna ranges. The popular region for numerous trekking routes. Some famous trek routes in the Annapurna region are:
-Annapurna Base Camp Trek
-Annapurna Circuit Trek
-Mardi Himal Trek
-Ghorepani Poon Hill Trek
9. Langtang Region
Langtang is an off-beat popular trekking region in Nepal. The region is popular because of its rough mountain landscapes, lush green forests, and traditional Tamang villages. It offers phenomenal views of Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, and other peaks. Some famous treks in the Langtang region are:
-Langtang Gosaikunda Trek
-Langtang Valley exploration
-Helambu Trek
Tamang Heritage Trail
10. Everest Region
The popular Everest region lies in the Khumbu region. The region is popular due to the highest peak Mount Everest. Many travelers visit this for trekking. Besides trekking, travelers can experience the unique Sherpa culture in the Everest region. The region has some stunning snow-covered mountains and many places to explore for travelers. Some famous treks in the Everest region are:
-Everest Base Camp Trek
-Everest Panorama Trek
-Everest Luxury Trek
-Gokyo Ri Trek
-Everest Base Camp Trek via Jiri, Salleri
In a nutshell, Nepal’s rich cultural heritage, splendid natural beauty, and spiritual significance make it a must-traveled destination for any traveler seeking an enriching experience.
TAGS: annapurna region Bhaktapur Durbar Square Boudhanath Stupa Changunarayan Chitwan Everest region Kathmandu Durbar Square Khokana Langtang region Lumbini Muktinath Mustang Nagarkot Pashupatinath Patan Durbar Square Pokhara Swayambhunath Stupa Upper Mustang